A few games into the NFL season, and we’ve already seen some pretty interesting match-ups. But the fun is only beginning as the NFL rolls into its third week. The slate includes the Patriots visiting the Jets, the Colts visiting the Ravens, and the Eagles at the Buccaneers.
It’s one of the most impactful weeks in the entire season, so let’s get into the NFL Odds for Week 3 at sportsbooks like Bovada right away.
NFL Week 3 Odds & Spread
Thursday Night Football (Sep. 21st)
8:15 PM EST
- Giants at 49ers (-4.5)
Sunday Football (Sep. 24th)
1 PM EST
- Broncos at Dolphins (-3.5)
- Patriots at Jets (-3.5)
- Colts at Ravens (-7)
- Titans at Browns (-4.5)
- Texans at Jaguars (-7)
- Bills (-4.5) at Commanders
- Falcons at Lions (-5)
- Saints at Packers (-1)
- Chargers (-1.5) at Vikings
4:05 PM EST
- Panthers at Seahawks (-4)
4:25 PM EST
- Bears at Chiefs (-9.5)
- Cowboys (-6.5) at Cardinals
8:20 PM EST
- Steelers at Raiders (-1.5)
Monday Night Football (Sep. 25th)
7:15 PM EST
- Eagles (-6) at Buccaneers
8:15 PM EST
- Rams at Bengals (-7)
>> View the latest NFL odds at Bovada
Overview of the 2023 NFL Season
Each season, beneath the scores and standings, there are always headlines. This year will be no different, and they’re already starting to take place.
The Battle For The AFC
Kansas City took the conference last year and went on to win the Super Bowl as well. However, the AFC is filled to the brim with talented teams. Can teams like Buffalo and Cincinnati take control of the conference this season? Will teams like the Ravens, Jets, or Dolphins have a shot with the additions they made in the offseason?
Could some surprise teams rise to the top like the Jaguars did last season? The AFC is stacked, and while we don’t know who will win it, we do know that it will be exciting.
>> Find the best AFC Division odds at BUSR
The QB Rookie Spotlight
All three first-round QBs are projected to start this season – right away or in time. Bryce Young, CJ Stroud, and Anthony Richardson have high expectations surrounding them. Whether they like it or not, the three will always be in an arms race for who the best of the class is, and all their fan bases have high expectations for them to bring glory to their franchise.
Head Coach Hot Seat
There will always be names on the line as the season starts. However, this year seems to have way more names already feeling the heat.
Coaches like Brandon Staley, Robert Saleh, and Kevin Stefanski could all be in hot water if they fail to make playoffs on the AFC side. While coaches like Ron Rivera, Dennis Allen, Todd Bowles, and Mike McCarthy also have some pressure to succeed this season, or they could be out of a job.
The smoke will clear, and security will be easier to identify based on results, but plenty of franchises are worth watching.
>> Head to BetOnline for the best NFL player futures
NFL Week 3: Game-by-Game Analysis
With a great week of football ahead, there are plenty of intriguing odds and matchups that will need a closer look before you hit the sportsbooks, so let’s take a deep dive into each game from Thursday to Monday Night.
Giants at 49ers (-4.5)
Analysis: Things kick off in Week 3 on Thursday Night when the New York Giants visit San Francisco to take on the 49ers. The 49ers currently sit as the favorite in this game and for a good reason. With home-field advantage, their defensive talent, and a great offensive scheme, taking them in this matchup feels like the safe option.
While the Giants were able to put together a strong season last year, there are still weak spots in their lineup that leave them outmatched against one of the most complete rosters in the NFL. However, if you believe that Quarterback Brock Purdy could still be dealing with his injury and the Giants’ offense continues progressing, the upset is certainly one to consider.
While this should be an exciting matchup of two potential playoff teams, the 49ers should handle business at home while covering the 4.5-point spread.
Writer’s Pick: 49ers -4.5
>> Bet on the 49ers winning this match-up at Bovada
Broncos at Dolphins (-3.5)
Analysis: The Miami Dolphins were cooking last season before the quarterback position became unstable due to injuries. While that concern still exists, the Dolphins are one of the best teams in the NFL when at or near 100%.
Assuming things stay on track, the offensive production should continue through this game. At the same time, on the defensive side, new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio will get his chance at revenge on his former employer, which could be very difficult to handle for Denver.
However, the Broncos have some arrivals of their own, with new Head Coach Sean Payton in town and one of the more complete rosters in the league; if Russell Wilson can shake off the lackluster play of last season and return to form, the Broncos aren’t just good, they’re potential contenders.
The defense in Denver is filled with talent, and if they can generate pressure while finding ways to limit the splash plays by Miami, then pulling off the upset isn’t out of the question.
The Dolphins should be able to handle business, resulting in a secure victory of four points or more.
Writer’s Pick: Dolphins -3.5
>> Place your money on the Dolphins winning the game at MyBookie
Patriots at Jets (-3.5)
Analysis: When the New York Jets officially traded for Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, it was with plenty of focus on needing him to push the team over the hump. That hump will be crucial in divisional games like against the New England Patriots.
The Jets have all the pieces in place now and should be able to control this game. A big part of their success will be limiting the run game for New England and, in turn, hurting their opportunities to open up in the passing game.
For the Patriots, their keys to the game will be finding ways to move the ball in the passing game successfully. Last season, the offense was out of whack under lackluster control. With Bill O’Brien at the helm this year, they must step up to the challenge to execute against one of the league’s top defenses.
The Jets will likely be one of the top teams in the AFC, but don’t be surprised if the Patriots pull this one off and score a big-time win against their division rival.
Writer’s Pick: Patriots ML
>> Place your moneyline bet for the Patriots at BetOnline
Colts at Ravens (-7)
Analysis: With an offseason filled with change, the Baltimore Ravens head into this season with high expectations and plenty of talent to match. Lamar Jackson is very difficult to match up against, and with new weapons like Wide Receivers Odell Beckham Jr and Zay Flowers, matching up with this offense could be nearly impossible.
On the defensive side, the Ravens must continue to generate pressure to keep a young Anthony Richardson frazzled and limit the passing attack.
The change was also big for the Colts’ offseason, and the big focus will be on Quarterback Anthony Richardson. While the tools are there for success, the time to gain polish and pro readiness will need to be proven for the offense to generate success.
Defensively, the Ravens look like a pick-your-poison type match-up. However, if you can take away the run game, there is promise to stall their scoring.
The Ravens are one of the better rosters in the NFL, while Indianapolis is in a rebuilding year. The Ravens should win this game handily, which means their seven-point spread should be easy to beat.
Writer’s Pick: Ravens -7
>> Rooting for the Ravens? Bet on the team to win this game at BUSR
Titans at Browns (-4.5)
Analysis: The Cleveland Browns had a great offseason adding pieces to their receiving room and defense to help cover up major liabilities on their roster last year. However, the big question mark still looms over Quarterback Deshaun Watson and if he can recapture the talent and ability he showed in his earlier years.
The run game will no doubt be successful, but the Browns still have to prove themselves in the first two games of the season but come into this match-up on a short week as they’ll play the Steelers on Monday Night Football in Week 2.
On the other side of the field will be the Tennessee Titans. A team that was well on their way to playoffs until injuries plagued the team and caused them to lose their last seven games of the season.
Healthy and with some welcome additions, the Titans look to reclaim the division and work themselves back into the top of the AFC. While this match-up should be close, the Titans are the safer bet with the longer prep time.
Writer’s Pick: Titans +4.5
>> Get the best odds for the Titans winning this match at Sportsbetting
Texans at Jaguars (-7)
Analysis: After catching fire to end the season, the Jaguars are now looking to build on their success. The key for this game will be the offensive line, as they won’t have either of last year’s starting tackles. They should be able to execute if they can keep Quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s jersey clean.
The Texans’ headlines for most of the season will be focused on rookies CJ Stroud and Will Anderson Jr. Both young stars will be expected to generate plenty of production to match the capital spent to acquire them. If the young talent can step up, Houston could be a team to watch for a potential upset.
Overall, though, Jacksonville is ahead of their team timeline and should securely win at home.
Writer’s Pick: Jaguars -7
>> Bet on the Jaguars to win this game at Betanysports
Bills (-4.5) at Commanders
Analysis: All eyes for the Commanders will be on Quarterback Sam Howell in this tough matchup with a strong Buffalo defense. However, if he can step up and produce, then the Commanders could be one of the surprise teams in the NFC this year. Defensively, the secondary much take major strides to stand a chance against the Bills’ passing attack.
The Bills will enter this game to continue playing at a high level they’ve established in years past. The big focus in this matchup will be seeing how Tre’Davious White looks against star wideout Terry McLaurin. If he looks back to 100%, the Bills’ defense could be terrifying this year.
The Commanders have plenty of talent and could keep this one close if things click, but the Bills are one of the NFL’s best for a reason. Expect them to cover.
Writer’s Pick: Bills -4.5
>> Place your bet on the Bills winning at Everygame
Falcons at Lions (-5)
Analysis: Head Coach Dan Campbell has been successful in his turnaround of the Detroit Lions, but now this season is where expectations are for the postseason. While many may overlook it, this game against Atlanta will be an excellent barometer for how they stack up against the NFC.
The Lions will need to slow down the run game, as their defense has been the weak spot in recent seasons, but if they can limit the Falcons’ main identity, it will go a long way for their chances.
Atlanta enters this game with an exciting opportunity to show themselves as a potential playoff team. Desmond Ridder will need to be efficient through the air to keep opportunities open in the run game, and if Atlanta can get pressure on Jared Goff, it will also go a long way for their chances.
This game will be exciting and close, but the Lions should take it. However, expect Atlanta to keep it within a field goal and cover the spread.
Writer’s Pick: Falcons +5
>> Think the Falcons will emerge triumphant? Place your bet at BetUS
Saints at Packers (-1)
Analysis: Quarterback Jordan Love will get the attention of headlines in this one, as the franchise’s new face must produce at a high level to keep doubters off this team and solidify himself as the franchise’s future. If he can perform well through the air, it will go a long way in the Packers’ chances of winning.
Quarterback remains the focus for New Orleans, as Derek Carr was brought to New Orleans with hopes he can carry them over the hump in a lackluster NFC South. While this isn’t a divisional match-up, both franchises could be competing for playoff spots at the end of the year, so the New Orleans Saints must be strong defensively to keep Jordan Love uncomfortable.
Both NFL teams could outperform expectations, so this game could get interesting, but the Saints’ moneyline should be the way to go with this game.
Review the team’s performance on the last Panters vs Saints match.
Writer’s Pick: Saints ML
>> Show your love for the Saints and place your bet at Lucky99
Chargers (-1.5) at Vikings
Analysis: In a super enticing mid-day match, the Minnesota Vikings are at home to face off against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Vikings head into this match-up with plenty of offensive firepower to match up well with the Chargers, but they’ll need new Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores to prove his influence on the defense, as there are plenty of holes on the depth chart.
The Chargers’ll take to the road, hoping to score a big-time early-season victory. The offensive firepower the Chargers bring surrounding Quarterback Justin Herbert will be crucial for their success. However, their run defense will be most important if they want to walk away victorious.
The Vikings’ scheme and run game have consistently produced well, so as underdogs, they are worth taking the moneyline on until further notice.
Writer’s Pick: Vikings ML
>> Head to Xbet for the best moneyline odds for the Vikings
Panthers at Seahawks (-4)
Analysis: The Carolina Panthers are excited to be under the control of new Head Coach Frank Reich, and there is real promise under rookie Quarterback Bryce Young. They’ll travel to Seattle to face off against the Seahawks, and with their defensive talent, they could be an enticing pick to pull off the upset.
If the offense can get rolling well, showing off steady and consistent production, they’ll have a real shot at capturing the win.
The Seahawks are filled with talent, and with Quarterback Geno Smith guiding the offense, this game promises to be a great battle of units. The Seahawks revamped defense should go a long way in helping them succeed, and if they can limit the run, the Panthers don’t possess the firepower to match them through the air.
This game will be an exciting battle between two intriguing teams. However, the Seahawks should be able to not only win this game but cover as well.
See the last Rams vs Seahawks game.
Writer’s Pick: Seahawks -4
>> Place your bet on the Seahawks winning at Bovada
Bears at Chiefs (-9.5)
Analysis: Fresh off of their Super Bowl victory, the Kansas City Chiefs aren’t content with taking the year off. However, things won’t be easy against a young and hungry Bears team. This game will be filled with plenty of highlight moments, and if the Chiefs intend to win, they’ll need to keep Quarterback Justin Fields contained so he can’t beat them with his legs.
Offensively, Quarterback Patrick Mahomes is bound to produce. If the defense can handle business, then KC is in good hands.
While this matchup is the team with the worst record of last season versus the defending champions, the Chicago Bears still should roll into this matchup with high hopes.
After a heavy spending offseason, plenty of draft picks, and another year of development for their young talent, this team is ready to make a playoff push. This game will require their offense to keep pace with Kansas City. If they can, they could just take a major early-season victory.
The Bears are exciting, but the brakes must be pumped for this match-up. The Chiefs sit on the throne, and they’ll be very difficult to match up against. Look for the Chiefs to win and cover on this one.
Writer’s Pick: Chiefs -9.5
>> Think the Chiefs have it in the bag? Bet on them at MyBookie
Cowboys (-6.5) at Cardinals
Analysis: The Arizona Cardinals host the Dallas Cowboys and open as 6.5 point underdogs, and that may be generous. New Head Coach Jonathan Gannon will have his work cut out for him without star Quarterback Kyler Murray. However, there is plenty of intriguing talent that could lead to an interesting game.
For the Dallas Cowboys, the big focus for this team will be needing to remain focused. On any given Sunday, any team can win. The Cowboys are the better roster, and with their offseason additions of Brandin Cooks and Stephon Gilmore, they’re gearing up with their focus on the Super Bowl.
However, there are plenty of games until then, and this Cardinals match-up is one of them. Things should go according to plan, and the Cowboys should secure an easy victory and cover the spread.
Writer’s Pick: Cowboys -6.5
>> Get the best odds for the Cowboys ar BetOnline
Steelers at Raiders (-1.5)
Analysis: Sunday Night Football will feature two storied franchises, and it should be one of the best games of the Week 3 slate. The Las Vegas Raiders currently sit as the 1.5-point favorite, but those lines could change quickly with rumors surrounding Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and his injury status.
While for Pittsburgh, much of the excitement surrounds the team’s upside. Whether it’s Quarterback Kenny Pickett or some other exciting players, they’ve added through their past two seasons.
Everyone is aware of the level of Head Coach that Mike Tomlin is, but the offensive woes need to be reduced, and if so, they could walk away with a big-time Sunday night victory.
Ultimately, the Raiders’ run defense struggled last season, and their secondary heading into the year is not strong enough to make up for it. The Steelers have a good chance to take this game and pull off the upset.
Writer’s Pick: Steelers ML
>> Find the best moneyline bet for the Steelers at BUSR
Eagles (-6) at Buccaneers
Analysis: The Eagles travel to Tampa Bay for the first game of Monday Night Football, where they’ll match up with the Buccaneers, and the lines have opened with the Eagles operating as 6 point favorites for the matchup. The key headline will be the young defense as they try to regenerate the success that got them to the Super Bowl last season.
Conversely, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter the year with the big question mark at quarterback as Baker Mayfield operates under center for the team, replacing Tom Brady.
The last year Buccaneers were filled with ups and downs, and the big issue was offensive line play. While they added some pieces in the draft, they seem overmatched against a team with as good a front seven as the Philadelphia Eagles.
Both teams will enter the season with a chip on their shoulder, but expect the Philadelphia Eagles to get out to a lead, control this game early, and safely cover the spread.
Writer’s Pick: Eagles -6
>> Bet on the Eagles winning this match at Sportsbetting
Rams at Bengals (-7)
Analysis: In a Super Bowl LVI rematch, both teams enter Monday Night Football with very different experiences from last season and expectations as a result. However, it won’t stop many from being excited to see the two teams face off.
The Los Angeles Rams fell apart last season with injuries unraveling their roster all over the lineup, ultimately leading to them finishing with a 5-12 record last season. As a result, the Rams had a semi-blowup of the roster last offseason, trading pieces like Jalen Ramsey, Bobby Wagner, and Allen Robinson while losing others to free agency.
Still, they bring back stars and Head Coach Sean McVay, so there is hope for some potential. If Quarterback Matthew Stafford and Wide Receiver Cooper Kupp can get cooking early, there is real potential for them to make some noise.
For Cincinnati, this matchup will surely bring a team with a chip on their shoulder, hopeful of avenging the loss from two seasons ago. With their offensive firepower and steady defensive production throughout their roster, expect them to control this game and walk away victorious.
Writer’s Pick: Bengals -7
>> Place your bet on the Bengals winning at Everygame
Interested in other betting markets? Check out the latest Indy 500 Odds and Predictions.
NFL Betting Tips
The NFL betting game is simple, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to get ahead. Here’s some friendly advice to give you the best chance to capitalize on your best for the upcoming football season.
1. Get Registered For an Account with Numerous Sportsbooks
With all the promotional offers and opportunities that sportsbooks give, it’s irresponsible not to work around multiple sites. Getting yourself a chance to find the best odds is crucial as a better, and there is no other way to do that than by signing up with varying platforms for your bets.
2. Find & Utilize Promotional Offers
Sportsbooks love new users, so if you can sign up with one as a first-time bettor, you’ll likely get extra funds to work with for your week of betting. More funds mean more chances at returns. It’s quite simple, and you’re only hurting your chances of success by not doing it.
3. Keep Yourself Updated On The Injury Report
Teams will go through various injuries and losses all season. Use tools to stay updated with teams so you know what players they’ll be without by game time. The last thing you’d want is to bet on some team to win when they’re missing their star quarterback. Keep yourself informed and prepared when going to place your bets. It will pay off big time.
Related post: Super Bowl 2024 Betting Odds
Guide to NFL Week 3 Betting
Each week of the season will be filled with contests, headlines, and questions, and that’s reasonable. Luckily, this is a great time to sort some of the confusion out of the way, well before the football week kicks off.
When Will NFL Week 3 Start?
Week 3 begins when the San Francisco 49ers host the New York Giants on Thursday Night Football. The game will be broadcast on Amazon Prime Video and will take place on September 21st at 8:15 PM EST.
Which NFL Games Will Be The Best of Week 3?
Most of the primetime matchups (TNF: 49ers vs. Giants, SNF: Steelers vs. Raiders, and MNF: Rams vs Bengals) are worth watching, at least for the storylines involved.
However, the mid-day Sunday games have some intriguing match-ups, like the Chargers vs. Vikings, Falcons vs. Lions, Titans vs Browns, and Patriots vs Jets, all show promising signs of being good match-ups.
Why Should I Bet On Week 3 of the NFL?
Getting involved in bets early in the season is best because there is still so much being figured out for sportsbooks across the league. If you think you have a good feeling about any bets, it’s more likely the sportsbook will be a bit further off with their predictions early in the year. That leaves you a great chance to win some bets!
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Do You Agree with These Week 3 NFL Odds and Predictions?
There is plenty to be excited about for the upcoming week of football, and you’ll have some great games to get out and bet on for a chance to win big.
We see great odds from top sportsbooks like Bovada, MyBookie, and BetOnline. Aside from moneylines and point spreads, there are plenty of betting opportunities for the rest of the season.
Remember, whatever bets you make, do it responsibly!
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